- 01: Introduction
- 02: History
- 03: Propellants, Firearms, and Ammunition Development
- 04: Modern Firearms Manufacture
- 05: Small Arms Ammunition
- 06: Evidence Handling Procedures
- Introduction
- Objectives
- AFTE Knowledge and Ability Factors
- Types of Evidence
- Associative Evidence
- The Crime Scene
- Evidence Submission
- Laboratory Evidence Handling
- Case Tracking Within the Laboratory
- Firearm and Toolmark Examination Considerations
- Selected Bibliography
- 07: Equipment and Instrumentation
- 08: Examination of Firearms
- 09: Cartridge and Shotshell Examination
- 10: Characterization and Evaluation of Fired Projectiles
- 11: Bullet Comparison and Identification
- 12: Gunshot Residue and Distance Determination
- 13: Toolmark Identification
- 14: Communicating Results
- Resources
Evidence Submission
Home > Evidence Handling Procedures > Evidence Submission
An established format for evidence submission and documentation assists in providing consistent information. The submission of evidence and the request for examination(s) can be documented using a laboratory request form or a letter of transmittal. This documentation is not only required by the laboratory for the acceptance of submitted evidence, but is also subject to discovery.
Evidence that is hand-carried or shipped should include the following:
- Individually packaged evidence items
- Packaged items inside a sealed container
- Letter of transmittal or laboratory request form from the submitting agency requesting examination(s)
- Copy of letter or form enclosed within the sealed container
- Copy of letter or form affixed to the exterior of the shipping container
Since transmittal letters can vary greatly in format, laboratories frequently request that agencies use an established form or format when submitting evidence.
